OxyContin Addiction

What is OxyContin Addiction?

The statistics on drug use of oxycodone, a derivative of opium, and, in turn, OxyContin, are stunning and staggering! According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), oxycodone has been abused for more than 30 years, but the arrival of OxyContin on the scene in 1996 marked an escalation in abuse. The organization reported that in 2013 nearly 60 million prescriptions for oxycodone-containing drugs were written. In 2012, 16 million people reported abusing oxycodone in their lifetime – up more than one million individuals vs. the previous year. In 2011, oxycodone was responsible for more than 150,000 emergency room visits. Our Florida rehab center, The Gardens at Lake Worth, is here to help you.

OxyContin is prescribed frequently to address moderate to severe pain from injuries, arthritis and cancer, as it mimics the effects of morphine to relieve or manage pain by increasing dopamine activity in key brain regions. The brain’s reward system values the sensations the drug brings, including less physical pain, release muscle tension, and feelings of calm, happiness, joy and relaxation.

Looking for information on another addiction? See more information on Marijuana and Percocet addiction.

Euphoria is the primary reason people use opioids non-medically. An OxyContin addiction follows the same pattern as addiction to heroin, with users increasing doses over time trying to recapture the pleasure originally experienced. Eventually, the drug only returns them to a “normal” state and keeps withdrawal symptoms at bay.

Addicts may:

Continue to use OxyContin, despite the negative consequences, which may include financial,

interpersonal, legal and medical hardships

Have noticeably changed interests

Lie and steal to get more drugs

Neglect other aspects of their life, choosing to devote more attention to getting and using drugs

OxyContin addiction and abuse will have a profound affect on brain chemistry and quality-of-life. Abuse of the drug takes both a physical and psychological toll on the addict.

Bodily effects can include:

Bloodshot eyes

Constipation

Dilated or constricted pupils

Drowsiness, fatigue and/or an increased need for sleep

Flushed skin

Itching

Lack of coordination

Loss of appetite

Muscle limpness or weakness

Nausea and vomiting

Red eyes

Shaking

Significant weight loss of gain

Slurred speech

Sweating

They may experience:

Anxiety

Confusion

Hallucinations

Mania

Memory loss

Mood changes

Secretiveness about activities and unexplained absences

Professional treatment is highly recommended to overcome an OxyContin addiction. Supervised detox in an inpatient setting with specially trained medical personnel ensures the safety and comfort of patients. The effects of addiction are reversible, with physical problems subsiding following withdrawal. The psychological addiction to OxyContin, however, can remain throughout one’s life. That’s where evidence-based treatment can help. This customized treatment program gets to the root of addiction to increase your chances for long-term recovery success. It is never too late – or early — to get the help you need. The Gardens at Lake Worth Rehab located close to South Florida beaches has admission reps standing by 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Call us at 844-357-3422 today.